CASIO SK-1 (1985)
A 32-key sampling keyboard with 8-bit PCM synthesis, released by Casio and sold as the Concertmate 500 through Radio Shack.
Overview
The CASIO SK-1 is a sampling keyboard manufactured by Casio and released in 1985. It was also sold under the name CONCERTMATE-500 with catalog number 42-4004, custom-made for Radio Shack/Tandy Corporation. As the first model in Casio’s SK family of sampling keyboards, it offered accessible digital sound creation at a consumer-friendly price point. Despite its toy-like reputation, the SK-1 has developed a cult following and has been used by professional musicians across electronic, rock, and experimental genres.
Specifications
| Number of Keys | 32 |
| Key Weight | Synth |
| Key Size | Mini |
| Touch Sensitive | no |
| Aftertouch | no |
| Number of Voices | 8 |
| Polyphony | 4 |
| Sound Generation | PCM |
| Piano Sounds | yes |
| Real World Sounds | yes |
| Sounds Editable | yes |
| Accompaniments | yes |
| Recorder/Sequencer | yes |
| Tutorials | no |
| MIDI | no |
| USB | no |
| Tablet Connectivity | no |
| AC Power | yes |
| Batteries | yes |
| Speakers | yes |
| Audio Out | yes |
| Audio In | yes |
| Sustain Pedal | no |
| Soft Pedal | no |
| Expression Pedal | no |
| Sampling | 8-bit PCM sampling of up to 1.4 seconds |
| Inputs | built in microphone and line level/mic inputs |
| Output | line out |
Design
The SK-1 uses Casio's PCM wave-based synthesis for basic sampled sound playback and is capable of 8-bit sampling up to 1.4 seconds. All voices can be shaped using 13 preset envelopes, portamento, and vibrato. Technical documentation indicates the pitch signal from the CPU is amplified by differential amplifiers (transistors T15 and T16), while the envelope signal is a stepped waveform generated by the CPU.
Context
Launched in 1985, the SK-1 was the first in Casio’s SK family of sampling keyboards. Marketed as an affordable electronic instrument, it retailed for under $100 at launch. Though some viewed it as a novelty, its unique sonic character and circuit-bending potential have given it lasting appeal.
Market
Due to its cult status, working CASIO SK-1 units now often sell for significantly more than their original price. Musicians including Fatboy Slim, Beck, Autechre, Portishead, Nine Inch Nails, and Blur have used the SK-1 in recordings.
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